Pitru Paksha 2025: Dates, Rituals, Significance & Complete Guide

In Hindu tradition, Pitru Paksha (पितृ पक्ष) is a sacred period dedicated to paying homage to one’s ancestors. It is believed that during these 16 lunar days, the souls of forefathers visit the earth to bless their descendants. Families perform Śrāddha, Tarpan, and Pind Daan rituals to express gratitude and seek blessings for prosperity, health, and peace.

In 2025, Pitru Paksha will be observed from 7 September to 21 September, with the most important day, Sarva Pitru Amavasya (Mahalaya), falling on 21 September (Sunday).

What is Pitru Paksha?

The term “Pitru Paksha” literally translates to “fortnight of the ancestors.” According to Hindu belief, honoring one’s forebears ensures the well-being of the living family. It is not only an act of remembrance but also a way to acknowledge the lineage and sustain spiritual continuity across generations.

Pitru Paksha 2025 Dates (India)

• Start Date: Sunday, 7 September 2025

• End Date (Sarva Pitru Amavasya): Sunday, 21 September 2025

Daily Śrāddha Highlights

• Purnima Śrāddha: 6 September

• Pratipada: 7 September

• Dwitiya: 8 September

• Tritiya–Chaturthi: 9–10 September

• Panchami (Mahā Bharani): 11 September

• Chaturdashi: 19–20 September

• Sarva Pitru Amavasya (Mahalaya): 21 September

(Exact tithi observances may vary slightly by region and local panchāng.)

Spiritual Significance

Pitru Paksha emphasizes gratitude and remembrance. Hindus believe that when ancestors are remembered with devotion, they bless their descendants with:

• Good health and long life

• Peace and prosperity

• Spiritual growth and protection from misfortune

The culmination of Pitru Paksha, Mahalaya Amavasya, is especially powerful for honoring all forefathers, including those whose dates of passing may not be remembered.

Rituals of Pitru Paksha

1. Śrāddha: Performed on the lunar date of the ancestor’s passing or on Mahalaya Amavasya. Offerings of cooked food, kheer, puri, and seasonal vegetables are made.

2. Tarpan: Offering of water mixed with sesame seeds and darbha grass to satisfy the departed souls.

3. Pind Daan: Preparation of rice balls with sesame and ghee, symbolizing nourishment for the ancestors.

4. Annadān and Charity: Feeding the poor and offering food to cows, birds, and priests. Donations of clothes or essentials are also common.

5. Special Observances: Those who died an untimely or accidental death are honored specifically on Chaturdashi (14th tithi) with Ekoddiṣṭa Śrāddha.

Do’s and Don’ts During Pitru Paksha

• Follow a sattvik diet: Simple vegetarian meals, avoiding meat, alcohol, eggs, onions, and garlic.

• Keep life simple: Traditionally, people avoid starting new ventures, celebrating functions, or buying luxury items during this period.

• Perform rituals sincerely: Keep the focus on remembrance, humility, and charity rather than grandeur.

Places to Perform Pind Daan

While Śrāddha can be performed at home, many families prefer sacred sites believed to hold special significance:

• Gaya, Bihar—the most renowned site for Pitru Paksha rituals, especially Pind Daan.

• Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)—on the banks of the Ganga.

• Prayagraj (Allahabad)—Triveni Sangam.

• Haridwar (Uttarakhand)—near the Ganga ghats.

• Nashik and Rameswaram—other important centers of ancestral rites.

Why Do Dates Differ Across Calendars?

Different regions follow either the Purnimanta or Amanta calendar system, which sometimes creates confusion. However, the sequence of Śrāddha days remains consistent across India. Local panchāngs and priests provide the exact muhūrtas (auspicious timings) for each city.

FAQ's

Q. When is Pitru Paksha in 2025?

• Pitru Paksha will be observed from 7 September to 21 September 2025 in India.

Q. What is Sarva Pitru Amavasya?

• It is the final day of Pitru Paksha (21 September 2025), when people honor all their ancestors collectively.

Q. What food should be offered during Śrāddha?

• Offerings usually include kheer, puri, seasonal vegetables, rice, and pinda (rice balls with sesame and ghee).

Q. Can women perform Śrāddha?

• Traditionally, the eldest male heir (karta) performs the rites, but in modern times many families involve women as well. Customs vary regionally.

Q. What if I miss the exact date of Śrāddha?

• If the exact tithi is missed, one can perform the rites on Sarva Pitru Amavasya.

Q. Which places are best for Pind Daan?

• The most prominent site is Gaya, Bihar, though other sacred spots like Varanasi, Haridwar, Prayagraj, and Rameswaram are also important.

Pitru Paksha 2025 is a sacred time for remembering and honoring ancestors. Beyond rituals, it is about gratitude, humility, and charity, reminding us of our roots and responsibilities towards the lineage that shaped us. Whether performed at home or in sacred pilgrimage centers, the essence remains the same—to thank and connect with our forefathers for their eternal blessings.

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